Fitial seeks more federal funds to build sports, cultural centers

Economic recovery will not solely depend on the entry of foreign investments but the relentless effort of the administration to bring in more tourists.

To bolster the economic agenda of the Covenant Party, standard bearer and concurrent House Speaker Benigno R. Fitial recently asked the US government for funding assistance to immediately construct the proposed 6,000-seat capacity Saipan Sports Complex.

Mr. Fitial said once the complex is completed, the Northern Marianas will be able to host international events and other sports activities which will generate additional revenues for the government.

He asked the federal government for additional $5.5 million in funding assistance for the immediate construction of the sports complex, seen to spur economic activity in the CNMI.

In addition to the proposed sports complex, Mr. Fitial is also eyeing the construction of the CNMI Cultural Center where traditional and cultural activities will be conducted.

“It will be based where there is a captive market, local people can do weaving, handicraft and sell it to tourists. These are but few of the things we are planning to do once we get in,” said Mr. Fitial.

Apart from economic reforms, he also hopes to institute measures that will clean up the environment and provide comprehensive health programs for Commonwealth residents.

Mr. Fitial officially announced his candidacy Saturday night at the Civic Center in Susupe before more than 2,000 supporters who witnessed the unveiling of the Covenant Party’s slate for the November polls.

Mr. Fitial’s running mate, Public School System Commissioner Rita H. Inos also officially announced her education programs anticipated to benefit thousands of CNMI youths.

Aside from Dr. Inos, Mr. Fitial also introduced other candidates running under the Covenant Party led by seasoned politician Herman Rogolifoi Deleon Guerrero who is seeking the Washington Representative post.

Seeking a senate seat are Juan Ayuyu and Diego Sorigao of Rota while contesting for a seat in the House of Representatives is Alejo M. Mendiola. The party fielded Julian S. Calvo for the mayoralty.

On Saipan, Janet Maratita, Antonio M. Camacho, Benjamin M. Cepeda and Atanacio Taitinifong for Precinct I; Oscar M. Babauta and Jesus Lizama for Precinct II; Malua T. Peter, Rosario M. Elameto, and Charles P. Reyes Jr. for Precinct III; and Ray Mafnas for Precinct IV.

On choosing Dr. Inos to be his lieutenant governor, Mr. Fitial underscored the abilities of the educator to support the next administration to carry out programs for the youth.

“She is the best choice because once there is an economic revival, it will create opportunities for the young generation, and Dr. Inos will help the administration to create programs to bolster the economic advancement of the youth,” said Mr. Fitial.

The tandem underscored the need to pursue economic programs that will bring in new investments and opportunities for the Commonwealth people, regardless of race and nationality. (EGA)